Longevity For Your Outdoors!
How-To Keep Your Brick & Masonry Looking Great

Brick, concrete, stone and other masonry products are porous, therefore, water can be a menace to its longevity. Not only are these surfaces at some risk of cracking and spalling due to the freeze/thaw cycles, but they can be stained by the organisms such as plant materials, fallen leaves etc, which then thrive on that trapped moisture.

As a result of the trapped moisture, you may also experience issues with algae, mold, and mildew. In the case of brick pavers, you might end up with dirt and grime, and even oil or grease stains. In all of these cases, waterproofing the porous surface with a dependable waterproofer can extend the life of the surface and help keep it looking great longer.

1. First step is to test the brick, concrete or masonry surface to see if it needs protection. Be sure to check all steps and patios.

   • Take a knife and scrape along the edge of a brick/masonry wall or concrete patio. If the surface flakes and crumbles, it's already been weakened by water damage and needs immediate attention.

   • You can also perform the "splash test" by splashing water against the brick, concrete, masonry surface and if the area becomes dramatically darker or immediately absorbs the water, it is time to waterproof your surface.

   • It is important to waterproof brick, concrete and other masonry areas where water stands or pools. These areas are especially vulnerable to water damage.

2. Is there a white powdery residue on your brick? This residue - called efflorescence -- often results when water soaks into the surface and dissolves the alkaline salts in the brick (or concrete). When the water evaporates, the salt deposits remain on the surface. Waterproofing will help avoid this condition. Both products, Thompson's® WaterSeal® Clear Multi-Surface Waterproofer and Thompson's® WaterSeal® Concrete Care Sealer will protect your surface from damaging effects of the environment.

   • Do not allow de-icing salts to stay on brick, concrete, or masonry surfaces too long. If the salts are left on for an extended period of time, they may have a negative reaction with the surface causing it to erode and crumble, leaving pits and holes.

   • Examine all brick, concrete, or other masonry surfaces. Do you see fine cracks or pits? These are just the beginning of a bigger problem - spalling. Spalling results when the top layer of concrete wears away, exposing the aggregate (the rough rock beneath the smooth surface). If you have large cracks or damage, be aware that you will need to patch the concrete before waterproofing it.

Next Step: Preparation is Critical